From Physical to Digital: What is Photogrammetry?

Işık Arda Yardımsever
Oct 7
7 min read

Digitalizing and examining an area or object has become a necessity in many fields. Having data analysis, calculations, and fine details readily available provides essential information for experts in the field and provides confidence to those seeking to utilize this service. This is precisely where photogrammetry comes into play, as it brings the physical world to our screens in 2D or 3D. So, what does photogrammetry mean, and what applications can be implemented in mapping using photogrammetry? Let's briefly explain what photogrammetry is.

What is Photogrammetry?

How Does Photogrammetry Work?

Advantages of Photogrammetry

Types of Photogrammetry

In Which Fields Is Photogrammetry Used?

Photogrammetry Software

What is Photogrammetry?

Photogrammetry is a method of converting real-world objects, terrain, or structures into 3D models by taking measurements from photographs. Photographs taken from different angles are analyzed by specialized software, resulting in 3D models or maps with precise measurements. Today, photogrammetry is frequently used in surveying, construction, archaeology, architecture, gaming, and film. Drone images, in particular, facilitate the digitalization of landscapes, buildings, or historical artifacts.

How Does Photogrammetry Work?

There are six basic processes for creating accurate and understandable photogrammetry:

Image Collection: Photos of terrain or objects are taken from many angles via drone, airplane or satellite.
Ground Control Points: To match the images with the correct coordinates, measurement points on the ground are determined by GPS or total station.
Image Matching: Using stereo matching and triangulation techniques, the lines of sight of the photographs are intersected, thus obtaining the 3D coordinates of the surface points.
Point Cloud and Depth Maps: A sparse point cloud is created by creating depth maps based on image textures and lighting data.
Correction and Ortho Image: Geometric distortions are corrected and ortho images are produced.
Digital Outputs: Finally, these data are digitized for use in GIS applications or cartographic maps.

Advantages of Photogrammetry

Compared to traditional land surveying, photogrammetry uses modern technology and thus has numerous advantages:

High Accuracy and Detail: Photogrammetry captures intricate details and provides precise measurements.
Cost Effectiveness: More budget-friendly, especially for large areas, reducing the need for extensive field measurements.
Non-Intrusive and Safe: Facilitates measuring and mapping fragile or hazardous areas without physical contact.
Versatility: Applied in a variety of industries, including cartography, archaeology, architecture, environmental monitoring, and urban planning.
Time Efficiency: Especially with aerial methods, it covers large areas quickly and accelerates projects.
Remote Accessibility: Enables data collection in inaccessible or difficult terrain.
Scalability: It can be used to map large areas as well as small plots and supports a variety of project scales.

Types of Photogrammetry

Photogrammetry types vary depending on different needs and areas of use. Aerial, terrestrial, space, and digital photogrammetry methods differ in terms of how the data is collected, the equipment used, and the output they provide.

Aerial Photogrammetry

Aerial photogrammetry is the technique of using aerial imagery to create precise maps, 3D models, and spatial data for analysis. Overlapping photographs are taken from drones, airplanes, or satellites. This method allows surveyors and engineers to accurately measure land, structures, and site features. It is widely used in fields such as construction, agriculture, urban planning, and environmental monitoring. It is one of the most effective tools for large-scale mapping and data collection.

Terrestrial Photogrammetry

Terrestrial photogrammetry is a method of taking measurements and creating 3D models from images taken by cameras on the ground. Unlike aerial photogrammetry, it captures ground-level details much more clearly. This allows for the high-accuracy documentation of building facades, historical structures, monuments, archaeological sites, and engineering projects. Terrestrial photogrammetry enables precise measurements in architecture and construction, and contributes to the digital preservation of artifacts in archaeology and cultural heritage studies.

Space Photogrammetry

Space photogrammetry is a method used to measure, map, and analyze Earth and other celestial bodies using images taken from spacecraft or satellites. By processing overlapping images taken from orbit, scientists can create highly detailed maps, monitor environmental changes, and study planetary surfaces. This method plays a crucial role in Earth observation, climate research, and space exploration, providing data on everything from natural disasters to the surface of Mars.

Digital Photogrammetry

Digital photogrammetry is a modern process used to analyze photographs with computer software to produce accurate 2D maps and 3D models. Unlike traditional methods, advanced algorithms automatically detect points, combine images, and produce precise data. This technique is widely used in surveying, GIS, urban planning, and engineering, allowing for faster processing, higher accuracy, and easier integration with other digital tools.

In Which Fields Is Photogrammetry Used?

Photogrammetry is a technology that has spread beyond surveying and construction sites, finding its place in nearly every industry today. It is also applied in fields such as geology, archaeology, medicine, sports, media, environmental protection, military, and agriculture.

Cartography

In the field of mapping, photogrammetry produces highly accurate maps from aerial and ground imagery. By converting overlaying photographs into detailed topographic data, cartographers create precise 2D and 3D maps depicting terrain, land use, and infrastructure. This application increases map accuracy, speeds production, and supports everything from navigation systems to national mapping projects.

Engineering

Photogrammetry helps engineers create precise 3D models and measurements for planning, design, and construction projects. By capturing accurate spatial data from imagery, engineers can assess terrain, monitor structures, and identify potential problems before construction begins. This increases project efficiency, reduces costs, and ensures structural accuracy in civil, mechanical, and industrial engineering.

Geology

In geology, photogrammetry analyzes landforms, rock formations, and mineral deposits. By converting aerial or ground images into detailed 3D models, geologists can examine erosion patterns, fault lines, and changes in terrain over time. This adds a new dimension to field analysis, accelerates resource discovery, and facilitates monitoring of natural disasters such as landslides and volcanic activity.

Archeology

Photogrammetry is used in archaeology to document excavation sites, artifacts, and historical structures in accurate 3D detail. By capturing images from different angles, researchers can create virtual reconstructions and preserve sensitive sites without physical intervention. This technique enhances analysis, supports cultural heritage preservation, and allows findings to be studied in detail and shared with the global research community.

Medicine

Medical photogrammetry is used to create precise 3D models of the human body, organs, and anatomical structures for diagnosis, treatment planning, and research. Specifically, it improves outcomes and efficiency in healthcare by supporting surgical planning, prosthetic design, and patient-specific medical solutions.

Sport

Sports photogrammetry is used to analyze athletes' movements, performance, and biomechanics through precise 3D imaging. By capturing detailed motion data from multiple cameras or sensors, coaches and trainers can optimize technique, prevent injuries, and improve training programs. It is particularly widely used in professional sports, rehabilitation, and performance research.

Media

Media photogrammetry is used in film, TV, and visual effects to create realistic 3D environments, props, and characters from real-world objects. By converting photographs into detailed digital models, filmmakers can seamlessly integrate CGI with live-action footage.

Environment and Ecology

In environment and ecology, photogrammetry is used to monitor ecosystems, track land cover changes, and assess natural resources. By creating accurate 3D models from aerial or satellite imagery, researchers can study forests, wetlands, and coastal areas.

Agriculture

In agriculture, photogrammetry is used to monitor crop health, soil conditions, and irrigation efficiency. By creating field maps and 3D models, problems such as nutrient deficiencies, pest infestations, or irregular growth patterns can be identified.

Military and Security

In military and security applications, photogrammetry is used to create accurate maps, 3D terrain models, and surveillance data for strategic planning. By analyzing aerial or satellite imagery, defense forces can monitor borders, assess threat areas, and plan operations with precision.

Cultural Heritage

In historical heritage, photogrammetry is used to digitally preserve and document monuments, archaeological sites, and artifacts with high precision. This allows cultural treasures to be studied, restored, and transferred without physical intervention.

Urban Planning

In urban planning, photogrammetry is used to create accurate 3D models of cities, streets, and infrastructure for better design and development. Aerial and ground imagery can be analyzed to assess land use and simulate construction projects, thus accelerating decision-making processes.

Photogrammetry Software

Today, professionals have countless options for photogrammetry work. While there's no single "best" in the field, there are photogrammetry software programs that are superior to others based on their own characteristics. Let's briefly examine the most popular photogrammetry software and why they are preferred.

Nerf Studio

Nerf Studio stands out for its ability to produce high-quality 3D models with minimal hardware requirements, making it accessible to users who do not have high-end computing resources.

Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF) Integration: Creates photorealistic 3D reconstructions from 2D images using AI.
Real-Time Rendering: Increases workflow efficiency by providing instant visualization of 3D scenes.

RealityCapture

RealityCapture is known for its speed and precision, making it an ideal choice for professionals who want fast turnaround times without compromising quality.

GPU Accelerated Rendering: Provides fast and efficient model creation.
High Resolution Output : Provides detailed 3D models suitable for various applications.

3DF Zephyr

3DF Zephyr is favored for its user-friendly interface and automation capabilities, allowing users to produce accurate 3D models with minimal manual intervention.

Automated Workflow: Simplifies the process of 3D reconstruction from photographs.
Comprehensive Output Formats: Supports various export options for flexibility.

Autodesk ReCap

Autodesk ReCap is preferred for its compatibility with other Autodesk software and is ideal for professionals within the Autodesk ecosystem.

Seamless Integration with Autodesk Products: Provides seamless workflow across platforms.
Advanced Point Cloud Processing : Facilitates detailed analysis and modeling.

IMAGINE Photogrammetry

IMAGINE Photogrammetry is preferred for its powerful analytical tools and seamless integration with GIS platforms, making it suitable for complex geospatial projects.

Advanced Image Processing Tools: Provides robust tools for analyzing and processing images.
Integration with GIS Platforms: Enhances spatial data analysis capabilities.

Agisoft Metashape

Agisoft Metashape is preferred for its precision and versatility and addresses a wide range of applications, from cultural heritage documentation to geographic analysis.

High Precision 3D Modeling: Produces accurate and detailed 3D models.
Comprehensive Format Support: Compatible with various data formats for flexibility.

Meshroom (Open Source)

Meshroom is preferred by those looking for a cost-effective solution with the flexibility to customize and expand functionality, especially in research and education environments.

Open Source Availability: Available for free with a collaborative development community.
Modular Architecture: Allows for customization and feature expansion.

Pix4Dmapper

Pix4Dmapper is preferred in sectors such as agriculture and construction due to its special tools designed specifically for aerial data, increasing efficiency and accuracy.

Drone Integration: Optimized for aerial imagery processing.
Comprehensive Analysis Tools: Provides tools for measuring and analyzing 3D models.

OpenDroneMap / WebODM

OpenDroneMap is preferred for its accessibility and cost-effectiveness, making it suitable for users with limited resources or those looking for a customizable solution.